Australia has been re-elected to second place on the Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), reflecting the nation’s role as a key voice in international shipping.
The result formally acknowledges Australia’s commitment to the IMO and its work in international maritime safety, security and pollution prevention, according to a statement by the Federal Minister for Transport and Infrastructure, Anthony Albanese.
Australia was elected equal second from its previous position of 18th at the IMO’s 27th Assembly in London.
With the fourth largest shipping task worldwide, Australia has most of its vessels transiting close to important natural marine and coastal habitats.
Minister Albanese commended the nation’s maritime agencies and industry for their willingness and cooperative approach to meeting Australia’s international obligations.
Having served on the Council for over 40 years since the inception of the IMO in 1959, Australia has been a key shipping authority in the region.
“It is critical that shipping, fundamental to Australia’s economic vitality, meets the highest safety and environmental standards,” Minister Albanese stated.
The IMO is a specialised agency of the United Nations, with responsibility for the safety and security of shipping, and the prevention of marine pollution by shipping vessels.
Image: cargo ship. Source: Go Green